Clinton Stumps at Jeep Factory

08/29/96

Reuters has reported that President Clinton made a campaign trail stop to watch the 2 millionth Jeep Cherokee roll off the assembly line at Toledo's Chrysler Jeep Plant on Tuesday. The President said the event was evidence of America's economic strength under his leadership. The vehicle was a right-hand drive model, destined for sale in Japan.

Afterward, Clinton spoke to Employees from a stage flanked by Jeep Cherokees. The President said that American exports to Japan have flourished since he became president, due to his negotiation of trade agreements.

An assembly worker who spoke at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Monday night introduced Clinton, who praised the workers: "You proved one more time that whenever we're given a chance to compete, we can be the best in the world."

Clinton called the global market "tough" but said he feels good about what has been happening since he became president. "If we were going to have free trade, it has to be fair," he said.

"You know, just four years ago this plant exported 17,500 Cherokees. This year, 41,500. That means 700 more good middle- class jobs and strong families," he said.

The United States has managed to bring its trade deficit with other exporting countries down to $8.1 billion in June. Analysts say the reduction has come surprisingly fast, but large trade gaps with China and Japan still persist.

Paul Dever -- The Auto Channel